The dealer may have missed a few things during the original PDI.... It's good to go over the entire bike looking and checking things during that first service.

Most service checklists say to "check critical fasteners".

This is one step on the Service Check list I wouldn't skimp on during that first service.

There is a chart in the service manual listing the critical fasteners for your bike and their corresponding torque values. You should get a hold of this list and make sure to check them if you perform your first service.... It's not hard, just takes a little time. It will also help you to learn about your bike.

Enjoy the new bike...!!!

 

I appreciate everyone sharing their advice! I think my best bet is to get the service manual. I’ll do the critical fastener check and change all the fluids. That sounds much better than paying HD around $500!

 

Any recommendations on the best service manual to buy? I’ve used Clymer in the past but I can’t seem to find any 2018 and up versions.

 

FWIW....

I tried to use an aftermarket service manual back in 1978 when working on my old shovel head. I ended up throwing it out, and buying an HD Factory Service Manual... I have been using HD Factory Service Manuals ever since...

They are more expensive, and have typos here and there, but..... IMHO, I have found them to be far superior to the aftermarket manuals...

You can get the HD manuals from a dealer or get a used one on eBay... but be sure to shop around on eBay and check the price of a new one.... I have seen numerous used HD service manuals on eBay that were selling for more than it would cost to get a new one from a dealer...

PS- the Factory Service Manual for a 2018 Softail is part #94000529... going to be about $150 at a dealer... some online dealers will sell for cheaper, but teh MoCo is cutting back on that discount stuff..

 

this is very helpful info! Thank you very much! I like to hear about people actually using both and which is better. I’ll start looking for a used copy.

 

IMO, the Harley FSM is excellent. The only complaints on here have been it's too detailed, maybe having you take something off to get at something, that might not have to be removed, but they have to cover all the possibilities.

You might find a download cheaper, I like having the book.

I was able to get mine from Surdyke HD before the MoCo pulled the discount.

 

The Harley service manual should be the first "tool" you buy with a new bike.

 

Only one i would buy is factory, and wouldn't own a harley without it.